Watch CBS News

Larry Foote Says This Week Is Must Win For Steelers

PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan) - The Larry Foote Show kicks off live from Monte Cello's.

Larry is still getting used to dealing with his injury, especially since he is right-handed. This is the first time Larry has ever had to deal with this severe of an injury. There was no decision for Larry when it came to deciding to stick around town as he heals. He is doing what he can to help the young linebackers with a player's perspective.

The bicep 'stung a bit' when it happened against the Titans, but he thought that it might have been a cramp. Larry's injury was much more severe than the one Ray Lewis had to deal with, and rest is essential.

Larry remembers back to his rookie year when the team had a 0-2 start that ended with a loss to Tennessee in the playoffs.

"We're not hitting the panic button;" however, this week is a "must win," according to Larry. The fans need to show up on Sunday night.

Winning is a very important for Larry when making the decision about where to sign last off-season. After he and "Mr. Rooney fought about pennies," it got done.

There is a learning curve with some of the 'exotic schemes' that the defense runs. Experience in that role is essential. The playbook is huge and definitely more expansive than other clubs.

Larry thinks that today's veterans meeting decision to deny younger players the distraction of games in the locker-room was done to just try to shake up a 0-2 squad. The young guys didn't used to play, they would be better served to study film or concentrate on their game. Respect for older guys used to be forced on the young players but things are different today. Now there is a "sense of entitlement." It doesn't happen with the Steelers, but Larry has heard stories of young players running wild on other clubs.

Larry has fond memories of former teammate Joey Porter. No one really knows where the 'Peezy' nickname came from. He says the story about Porter trying to fight the Ravens' bus is true. Ray Lewis retreated to the bus after words with Peezy. Larry misses the old days before heavy fines for shenanigans.

Ben's first year was a highlight of Larry's career. Larry does not disagree that the Patriots seemed to know everything they were doing. Young guys have to prove themselves and Ben did. The like that Larry has for former teammate Tom Brady is shrinking through the years, but he respects him.

Larry will be going on the Steelers Cruise and he is looking forward to his first experience on a ship. He could never move to a warm weather location as he is a cold weather guy.

Larry was as surprised as everyone else that the Browns traded Trent Richardson.

Larry loves Coach Mike Tomlin; especially the things he says, and the fact that he remembers everything. Larry would be a little confused if he was a Brown right now. Larry enjoys being a rock star when the team travels, but Cleveland is one of the few places where the fans are loyal.

Le'Veon Bell was a full participant in practice today, somewhat surprisingly so. Larry could tell that Bell was special even though he wore the wrong colors in college.

This team has missed last year's MVP, Heath Miller. Larry says Miller, is a complete tight end and is severely underrated around the league. People here know what they have. Heath only celebrated once in his life, it was his rookie year against Miami in the playoffs. Heath is quiet but not void of character.

Troy Polamalu has committed to cutting his hair for the veterans. Larry has regretted his hair cut due to his receding hairline, but as long as it's for charity, Larry is all for the gesture.

Larry Foote

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.